Working as an SAP Consultant in Norway

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• Working Culture
• Work Permits and Visas
• Salaries and Taxes
• Cost of Living
• Transport
• Healthcare
• Language
• Popular Places to Live in Norway
• Weather
• Leisure and Social

Working Culture

Work-life balance is highly valued in Norway. A typical working week consists of five days, with a maximum of 37 hours. In return, Norwegians maintain a high level of efficiency in the workplace. Managers tend to avoid hierarchical structures, often preferring to ask for employees’ input rather than giving direct orders.

Many Norwegian companies offer several appealing benefits, including shared parental leave, the July shutdown, and early finishes on Fridays. Employees also enjoy ten public holidays per year and, in some cases, “bridging days” – allowing them to take a Monday or Friday off when a public holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday. Employers are even known to encourage leaving early on particularly sunny days, promoting a healthy balance between work and life.

As one of the world‘s leading exporters of oil, Norway offers significant opportunities for SAP consultants in industries like energy and oil. The country is home to several large private and state-owned organisations spanning the energy, telecoms, engineering, and shipping sectors.

For SAP consultants, contracts often include the flexibility of working remotely one or two days a week, with travel expenses covered by the employer. This allows consultants to maintain close connections with their families in their home country. In some cases, fully remote contracts are also available, making it even more convenient for international consultants.

Work Permits and Visas

If you’re an SAP consultant looking to work in Norway, the process of obtaining a work permit or visa will depend on your nationality.

• EU/EEA Nationals: Citizens of the EU and EEA can live and work in Norway without a work permit. However, you must register with the local police within three months of your arrival to obtain a registration certificate. This is a straightforward process that ensures your legal status as a resident.
• Nordic Nationals: Nationals from other Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland) are exempt from registration but must notify the National Registry that they have moved to Norway.
• Non-EU/EEA Nationals: If you are from a country outside the EU/EEA, the process can be more complex, and work permits are generally required. The type of permit you’ll need varies depending on your country of origin, the nature of your work, and the duration of your stay. Non-EU nationals typically apply for a Skilled Worker Permit, which is necessary for SAP consultants and other highly skilled professionals. To qualify, you must have a job offer from a Norwegian company that meets the criteria for a skilled position.

For an in-depth look at work permits and visas, you can visit the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website, which provides detailed information on visa types, application processes, and the documentation you will need to prepare.

Salaries and Taxes

Salaries for SAP consultants in Norway are generally higher than in other European countries. The typical daily rate for an SAP consultant ranges between €500 and €600, reflecting Norway’s higher cost of living and the competitive market for SAP professionals.

However, the tax rate in Norway can be up to 50%, and in some cases, even slightly higher depending on your income. These taxes support Norway’s extensive public services, such as healthcare, pensions, and other social benefits, which are key to the country’s high quality of life.

Tax Obligations and Discounts

• Tax Deduction Card: Before receiving your first paycheck, you must apply for a tax deduction card and provide it to your employer. This ensures that the correct amount of tax is deducted directly from your salary.
• Annual Tax Return: You will need to submit a tax return by the end of April each year, which will detail your income and taxes for the previous year.

As a foreign worker, you benefit from a tax discount during your first two years of residence in Norway, helping to ease the transition to the higher tax rates.

The “183 Days Rule”

This rule can be advantageous for SAP consultants on short-term contracts. If you stay in Norway for less than 183 days within a 12-month period, you are not considered a tax resident and will only be taxed on income earned in Norway. However, if you stay for 183 days or more, you will be required to pay tax on your worldwide income. To avoid double taxation, you should check whether your home country has a double taxation agreement with Norway.

For a deeper understanding of how much tax you would be expected to pay, you can use the tax calculator provided by the Norwegian Tax Administration.

Cost of Living

As an SAP consultant, you can expect a higher salary in Norway compared to many other European countries, which helps offset the country’s higher cost of living. On average, the cost of living in Norway is 50-60% higher than in the United Kingdom, with many everyday items—especially imported goods—being more expensive due to taxes. However, Norway’s competitive salaries for skilled professionals ensure that you can maintain a comfortable standard of living despite these higher costs.

While dining out and visiting bars can be expensive and are typically reserved for special occasions, the Norwegian lifestyle is often centred around outdoor activities and family time, which cost little to nothing. With easy access to nature and recreational opportunities, many expats find that Norway’s unique work-life balance makes up for the higher price tags.

Housing and Rent

Renting in Norway can be about 30% more expensive than in the UK, especially in major cities like Oslo and Stavanger, where many SAP consulting jobs are based. That said, living in the suburbs or smaller towns nearby offers more affordable housing options without compromising on Norway’s high quality of life. SAP consultants may also find it easier to manage housing costs due to the flexibility of remote work options, allowing them to live further from expensive urban centres.

To help manage costs, many expats take advantage of frequent trips to Sweden, where shopping can be more affordable. Additionally, Norway’s excellent public transport system makes it easy to save on commuting, and expats may consider purchasing monthly passes to reduce travel expenses.

Though Norway’s cost of living is higher, the country’s strong focus on social equality, generous salaries, and exceptional quality of life make it an attractive option for SAP consultants seeking a balance between professional growth and personal well-being.

Transport

Norway’s public transport system is highly reliable and well-maintained, making it an excellent option for getting around, particularly in cities and towns. Monthly passes are a cost-effective way to travel regularly, covering buses, trams, and trains. However, for longer journeys, buses and trains may take more time due to Norway’s mountainous terrain, so many people opt to fly when travelling across the country. As a result, Frequent Flyer Points programs are popular, especially for professionals like SAP consultants who may need to travel between regions.

For those considering driving, EU nationals can use their current driving license without any issues. However, it’s important to familiarise yourself with Norwegian driving regulations, as they differ from those in other countries. Alcohol limits are stricter than in the UK, so extra caution is necessary. You’ll also need to prepare for the winter conditions, as driving in snowy weather can present challenges. Make sure your car is equipped with winter tyres, and always be mindful of wind conditions and narrower roads, which are common in rural areas during colder months.

In Norway, many consultants find that combining public transport with driving provides the most flexibility, especially for reaching remote locations. Fortunately, Norway’s infrastructure supports a smooth commute, whether by road or rail.

Healthcare

Norway offers a high-quality healthcare system funded primarily through taxes. Basic medical services, such as visits to a general practitioner (GP), are covered, but patients are expected to pay for certain services, including appointments and prescriptions until they reach an annual cap of 2,200 NOK. Once this cap is met, you will be issued an exemption card (frikort), which allows you to access additional medical care without further charges for the rest of the year. This system ensures that individuals are protected from high medical bills in the event of serious illness.

Healthcare for Expats and Temporary Residents

For temporary stays, individuals from EU/EEA countries can access healthcare in Norway using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which provides limited coverage for necessary medical treatment. However, this card does not cover everything, and you may still need to pay for certain services or treatments.

For SAP consultants planning to stay in Norway long-term, it may be worth considering private health insurance to cover any additional medical costs not included in the public system, such as dental care, specialist consultations, or faster access to private hospitals.

Key Points to Consider

• Registering with a GP: Once you are a resident, you should register with a local GP through Norway’s public healthcare system. This is your first point of contact for medical care.
• Prescriptions: Prescription medications are partially subsidised by the government, so you’ll only pay a portion of the cost.
• Emergency Services: Emergency healthcare is available to everyone in Norway, including tourists, and does not require upfront payment.

For more specific details about coverage, especially for expats or non-EU residents, you can visit Helsenorge, the official portal for the Norwegian healthcare system.

Popular Locations for SAP Consultants in Norway

When considering where to live as an SAP consultant in Norway, there are a few key cities that stand out due to their thriving industries and quality of life.

Stavanger

Located in the southwest, Stavanger is Norway’s third-largest city and is often referred to as the “oil capital” of the country. The region is home to many companies in the oil, gas, and energy sectors, making it an attractive location for SAP consultants working in these industries. With its rapidly growing economy, Stavanger has also become one of Europe’s fastest-growing cruise ports.

Despite its industrial importance, Stavanger has retained much of its traditional charm. The city boasts a picturesque town center, famous for its wooden buildings and narrow streets. The surrounding region offers easy access to stunning beaches, hiking trails, and ski centers, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors. It’s an ideal location for professionals looking for a balance between career opportunities and family life, as it is considered one of the most family-friendly cities in Norway.

Oslo

As the capital and largest city in Norway, Oslo is a vibrant and cosmopolitan hub, home to a mix of nationalities, including significant populations from Sweden, Pakistan, Chile, Somalia, Great Britain, and the U.S. Oslo’s thriving IT sector makes it the primary destination for SAP consultants, with numerous opportunities in both public and private sectors.

Surrounded by islands, lakes, and forests, Oslo combines city living with access to nature. It’s a city full of parks and green spaces, and just a 10-minute boat ride away are stunning beaches that are perfect for summer relaxation. During the winter months, Oslo is a prime location for skiing and cross-country trail walking, making it appealing to those who love outdoor activities year-round.

Most SAP roles in Norway are concentrated in Oslo, where you’ll find a wider range of opportunities across various industries, as well as a bustling international community.

Other Noteworthy Locations

While most SAP jobs are based in Oslo and Stavanger, other regions in Norway are also worth exploring, especially for short-term visits or remote work options. Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is a unique destination known for its polar bears and the northern lights. If you plan to visit Svalbard, there are some unique rules to follow, such as always carrying a passport and understanding safety guidelines related to polar bears and avalanches.

Weather

When considering a career in Norway, it’s important to understand the winter climate. Norway’s winters can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with extreme cold and limited daylight. During the winter months, some areas receive only four to five hours of sunlight per day, with temperatures dropping as low as -25°C. However, Norwegians are well-prepared for these conditions, managing with high-quality winter clothing, sunlamps in homes and workplaces to combat the lack of daylight, and winter sports like skiing and ice skating.

In cities like Oslo and Stavanger, winter weather can sometimes affect commuting, though Norway’s infrastructure is well-equipped to handle such conditions. Embracing winter sports and outdoor activities can also help expats integrate into local life and enjoy the colder months to the fullest.

Social Life and Leisure

Norwegian society is shaped by two important social values that have no direct translation in other languages. The first is janteloven, a principle that emphasises humility, conformity, and equality, discouraging the flaunting of wealth, achievements, or status. The second is dugnad, a concept of community work and cooperation, where neighbors come together to help each other with various tasks, fostering a strong sense of local collaboration.

While Norwegians may seem reserved at first, they are known for their straightforwardness. Once you break the initial barrier, friendships can become long-lasting, and the workplace is often a great environment to begin building relationships. This can make it easier for expats, like SAP consultants, to connect with colleagues and integrate into local life.

Norwegians have a deep love for the outdoors, thanks in part to allemannsrett (“the everyman’s right”), a law that allows everyone to roam freely and camp in open areas, as long as it’s not private land. This encourages a lifestyle rich in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring nature. Winter sports like skiing and ice skating are very popular, as is handball. Football is also a favorite sport to both play and watch, with match tickets often more affordable than in the UK.

Social gatherings in Norway often include alcohol, particularly beer and aquavit, a local schnapps. After work or on weekends, it’s not uncommon to see friendly, lively groups enjoying drinks together in public spaces. While Norwegians may seem reserved at first, alcohol can help break the ice and create an inviting social atmosphere.

Norway is an attractive option for SAP consultants who want to grow their careers while enjoying a high quality of life. With great salaries, supportive employers, and a relaxed work culture, it’s a place where you can truly find a balance between work and personal life. Outside of work, Norway’s stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, combined with a welcoming community, offer plenty of ways to enjoy your downtime.

If you’re looking for a new opportunity in a country that values both professional growth and quality of life, Norway is definitely worth considering as your next destination.